PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Ajá tó rí mótò tó dúró fi ara-a rè bọ Ògún.”
(Translation: A dog that sees a motor vehicle and stands in its way makes itself a sacrifice to Ògún.)
Context:
In Yoruba culture, Ògún is the deity of iron and the patron deity for hunters (because of all the metallic intruments they use); one of Ògún's favourite sacrifices is dogs.
The proverb warns against ignoring obvious dangers. A dog that recklessly stands before a moving car is doomed to destruction, becoming an “unnecessary sacrifice.”
The heart of the proverb is about taking unnecessary risks.
The lesson: heed warnings, practise foresight, and avoid self-inflicted harm.
Biblical Connections & Applications:
Proverbs 22:3 – “A prudent man foresees danger and hides himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.”
Proverbs 28:1 – “The wicked flee when no man pursues: but the righteous are as bold as a lion.” (Yet boldness without prudence is foolishness.)
Acts 1:4 – Jesus told the disciples to “wait for the promise of the Father”—a reminder to pause and heed spiritual guidance.
Proverbs 6:6–8 – The wisdom of ants gathering food in summer teaches preparation and foresight.
Lamentations 3:27 – It is good to bear responsibility early, preparing for future challenges.
Practical Takeaways:
Ignorance or overconfidence can make us blind to danger. Avoid the “confidence that only ignorance can supply.”
Do not ignore red flags in relationships, careers, or spiritual life; danger ignored today can destroy tomorrow.
Don’t toy with sin or assume grace will shield you from its consequences.
Learn from the wisdom of older generations rather than dismissing their experiences.
Be proactive in practical matters (e.g., renewing visas, planning ahead) instead of leaving things until it is too late.
Take time to pause, listen, and follow the checks of the Spirit before making big decisions.
Episode Title: A Proverb on Taking Advantage of Others
Proverb (Yorùbá): “Bí yó ṣe èmi, bí yó ṣe ìwọ, kì í jẹ́ ká ṣu sóko a-láì-rójú. ”
Translation: It-might-happen-to-me, it-might-happen-to-you stops one from defecating on the farm of the person who has no time to tend it.
Meaning: One should not take advantage of the weak, for no one knows what the future might hold.
Disclaimer: This episode contains discussions about the act of defaecation (poo or faeces) in the context of an African proverb.
Cultural background:
Biblical Connections & Applications:
Proverbs 26:27 – “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it; if someone rolls a stone, it will roll back on them.” Actions have consequences.
Matthew 7:12 – The Golden Rule: “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
Ecclesiastes 11:1 – “Cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again.” What you sow, you will eventually reap.
Proverbs 26:15–19 – Warnings against laziness, meddling, and trickery toward neighbours.
LISTEN TO THE EPISODE:
✥ Our Website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/omoluabi
✥ Other Platforms — https://pod.link/1550735589
FOR MORE RESOURCES FROM JOSEPH & ANU OLA:
Explore additional resources and content from Joseph and Anu Ola on various platforms:
✥ Linktree — https://linktr.ee/josephola
JOIN THE OMOLUABI COMMUNITY: Stay connected with us as we journey together towards becoming true Omoluabis — people of character and wisdom. You can like our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/omoluabipodcast/ or join Alive Mentorship Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/alivementorship. If you have African proverbs you'd like us to discuss in future episodes, you can submit them through our website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/contact or reach out on social media.
Till next time, remain an Omoluabi.
Omoluabi Podcast | Season 7 Episode 2
A Proverb on Hope and Patience
Proverb:Ó pẹ́ títí aboyún, oṣù mẹ́sàn-án. (Translation: "The longest respite for the pregnant woman is nine months.")
Key Takeaway:This episode delves into an African proverb about pregnancy, using it as a lens to explore biblical themes ofhope, patience, andperseverance during challenging times. The proverb emphasises thatwaiting periods, like pregnancy, have definite endpoints,bringing into perspective the popular saying,"This Too Shall Pass."
Although pregnancy might seem like a pause from regular life, it brings its own unique challenges while leading to a transformative new beginning. Through this metaphor, we draw powerful parallels between pregnancy and other life challenges, demonstrating thatevery difficult season eventually concludes, ushering in either relief or new obstacles to overcome. By weaving together these themes with biblical teachings on faith and endurance, the episode encourages listeners to maintain hope during trials, trust in God's guidance, and stay focused on positive outcomes even when facing significant hardships.
Scriptural References:
Omoluabi Podcast | Season 7 Episode 1
PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Ní teere, ní tèèrè, Ṣàngó ṣe bẹ́ẹ̀ ó jó wọjà.” (Translation: Erratically and imperceptibly, Shango continued to dance until he was at the market.)
Context:
Biblical Connections & Applications:
Practical Takeaways:
Book Recommendation:Atomic Habits by James Clear
Omoluabi Podcast | Season 6 Episode 6
PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Alájàpá ò lẹ́ran láyà..” (Translation: "The tortoise has no flesh on its chest.")
REFLECTION
Some expectations are plainly futile! It is pretty obvious that the turtle's chest is always hard. As such, it is futile to be seeking flesh from that part of the turtle's body.But where is the place of faith in a God that can do all things?
LISTEN TO THE EPISODE:
✥ Our Website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/omoluabi
✥ Other Platforms — https://pod.link/1550735589
FOR MORE RESOURCES FROM JOSEPH & ANU OLA:
Explore additional resources and content from Joseph and Anu Ola on various platforms:
✥ Linktree — https://linktr.ee/josephola
✥ Disha Page — https://josephola.disha.page/
JOIN THE OMOLUABI COMMUNITY: Stay connected with us as we journey together towards becoming true Omoluabis — people of character and wisdom. You can like our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/omoluabipodcast/ or join Alive Mentorship Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/alivementorship. If you have African proverbs you'd like us to discuss in future episodes, you can submit them through our website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/contact or reach out on social media.
Till next time, remain an Omoluabi.
Omoluabi Podcast | Season 6 Episode 5
PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Ajá tó máa rún ọkà á láyà; ológbò to máa jẹ àkèré á ki ojú bọ omi.” (Translation: "A dog that will chew dried corn must be brave; a cat that will eat a frog will dip its face in water.")
REFLECTION
Dogs' teeth aren't suited to chewing corn, so they risk dental damage by doing so. Similarly, a cat's pursuit of frogs can be perilous. The proverb therefore reminds us that, in life, getting what you really want often comes at a price. Great achievements require great dedication. Extraordinary feats demand extraordinary effort. To conquer a significant challenge, one must exert considerable force. As such, we reflected on the above proverb emphasising the need to start embracing this principle of "paying the price" right from when we are young! As Lamentations 3:27 says, "it is good for people to submit at an early age to the yoke of his discipline" (NLT). We also reflected on examples of what this has looked like in our own lives.
LISTEN TO THE EPISODE:
✥ Our Website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/omoluabi
✥ Other Platforms — https://pod.link/1550735589
FOR MORE RESOURCES FROM JOSEPH & ANU OLA:
Explore additional resources and content from Joseph and Anu Ola on various platforms:
✥ Linktree — https://linktr.ee/josephola
✥ Disha Page — https://josephola.disha.page/
JOIN THE OMOLUABI COMMUNITY: Stay connected with us as we journey together towards becoming true Omoluabis — people of character and wisdom. You can like our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/omoluabipodcast/ or join Alive Mentorship Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/alivementorship. If you have African proverbs you'd like us to discuss in future episodes, you can submit them through our website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/contact or reach out on social media.
Till next time, remain an Omoluabi.
Omoluabi Podcast | Season 6 Episode 4
PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Obìnrin-ín tẹ ìlú, ó tú.” (Translation: "A woman founds a town, and it scatters.")
REFLECTION
Even though the proverb is superficially misogynistic, it points beyond this to the need for both genders for the flourishing of humanity in any community. Have a listen for our thoughts on this!
LISTEN TO THE EPISODE:
✥ Our Website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/omoluabi
✥ Other Platforms — https://pod.link/1550735589
FOR MORE RESOURCES FROM JOSEPH & ANU OLA:
Explore additional resources and content from Joseph and Anu Ola on various platforms:
✥ Linktree — https://linktr.ee/josephola
✥ Disha Page — https://josephola.disha.page/
JOIN THE OMOLUABI COMMUNITY: Stay connected with us as we journey together towards becoming true Omoluabis — people of character and wisdom. You can like our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/omoluabipodcast/ or join Alive Mentorship Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/alivementorship. If you have African proverbs you'd like us to discuss in future episodes, you can submit them through our website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/contact or reach out on social media.
Till next time, remain an Omoluabi.
Omoluabi Podcast | Season 6 Episode 3
PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Ẹṣín dára ó ku aré; èèyán dára ó ku ìwà; ajá òyìnbó dára ó ku àtidẹ.”(Translation: “The horse looks great but lacks speed; the man is handsome but lacks character; the European dog is good-looking but cannot hunt.”)
REFLECTION
LISTEN TO THE EPISODE:
✥ Our Website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/omoluabi
✥ Other Platforms — https://pod.link/1550735589
FOR MORE RESOURCES FROM JOSEPH & ANU OLA:
Explore additional resources and content from Joseph and Anu Ola on various platforms:
✥ Linktree — https://linktr.ee/josephola
✥ Disha Page — https://josephola.disha.page/
JOIN THE OMOLUABI COMMUNITY: Stay connected with us as we journey together towards becoming true Omoluabis — people of character and wisdom. You can like our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/omoluabipodcast/ or join Alive Mentorship Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/alivementorship. If you have African proverbs you'd like us to discuss in future episodes, you can submit them through our website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/contact or reach out on social media.
Till next time, remain an Omoluabi.
Omoluabi Podcast | Season 6 Episode 2
PROVERB CONSIDERED: ““Níbo ló gbé wà?” nìyájú ẹkùn.” (Translation: "[To ask] ‘Where is it?’ is a great insult to the leopard.")
REFLECTION
To put the proverb in context, imagine yourself in one of Kenya’s national parks. Your son has been looking forward to seeing his favourite animal—the leopard—up close in the wild. As your tour guide drove you around from place to place across the park showcasing various animals to you, you finally arrived at a vast expanse of grassland where you could see an animal with black spots as well as a lion and a black rhino. Your tour guide tells you, “Look over there! That’s the leopard.” You looked. You saw the lion, the rhino, and the other animal covered in black spots, but still, you asked, “Where is it? Where is the leopard?”
The proverb we considered in this episode says, for you to ask such a question is an insult to the leopard! What kind of person would not be able to tell which is the leopard among a lion, a rhino, and a spotted animal? If the leopard could understand your language and heard you ask such a dumb question, it would probably teach you a lesson! Indeed, the leopard is a rather unmistakable creature in the wild, isn't it? That's the point of this proverb—one should be knowledgeable enough to avoid displaying ignorance about things they should know.
But sometimes, in life, we do the exact opposite. We speak or choose to think in ways that reveal our ignorance! In our biblical reflection on this proverb, we offer two distinct interpretations of the proverb:
1. Living as a Christian and reflecting God's presence: Anu applies the proverb to the concept of Christian identity. Relating it to Romans 8:16 and 2 Timothy 2:4, she emphasises the importance of Christians embodying their faith in all aspects of life. Christians, like leopards, should be easily identifiable in any sphere they find themselves in. They shouldn't need to camouflage or compromise their identity to fit in. This perspective underscores the significance of living a life that reflects the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.
2. Awakening from Ignorance: Joseph takes a different approach. He sees the proverb as a way to highlight someone's ignorance. Asking "where is it?" about something obvious is a way to point out a lack of awareness. He connects this to the story of King Nebuchadnezzar, who forgot God's role in his achievements (Daniel 4:29-35). This serves as a caution against the human tendency to take credit for God's work, thereby diminishing His glory. This should prompt us to consider our own actions and speech, ensuring that we never rob God of the glory that rightfully belongs to Him.
Furthermore, the episode highlights the subtle attacks on our faith, whether through external challenges or internal complacency. The devil will always seek to downplay the importance of faith for us in times of comfort or difficulty. However, a strong Christian identity, rooted in the knowledge of God, allows one to resist such temptations. “. . . the people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.” (Daniel 11:32 NKJV)
Anu's reminder to hold onto the truth of our identity as children of God, as affirmed by the Spirit, is both comforting and empowering. In the face of such attacks, there's no need to engage in futile arguments or attempts to prove our faith. Instead, we can find solace in the knowledge of whose we are.
Key Takeaways:
LISTEN TO THE EPISODE:
✥ Our Website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/omoluabi
✥ Other Platforms — https://pod.link/1550735589
FOR MORE RESOURCES FROM JOSEPH & ANU OLA:
Explore additional resources and content from Joseph and Anu Ola on various platforms:
✥ Linktree — https://linktr.ee/josephola
✥ Disha Page — https://josephola.disha.page/
JOIN THE OMOLUABI COMMUNITY: Stay connected with us as we journey together towards becoming true Omoluabis — people of character and wisdom. You can like our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/omoluabipodcast/ or join Alive Mentorship Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/alivementorship. If you have African proverbs you'd like us to discuss in future episodes, you can submit them through our website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/contact or reach out on social media.
Till next time, remain an Omoluabi.
Omoluabi Podcast | Season 6 Episode 1
PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Pípẹ́ ni yó pẹ̀ẹ́, akólòlò á pe baba.” (Translation: “It may take a long while, but the stammerer will eventually manage to say ‘‘Papa.’’”)
REFLECTION
Perhaps this proverb reminds you—as it reminded me—of a stammerer you know. Or perhaps, it reminds you of yourself and your occasional stutter. Stammering can be embarrassing, but the way the stammerer is portrayed in this proverb is as a champion that we should learn from. What kind of lessons can stammering teach us?
1. It’s only a matter of time. Between a stammerer’s stutter and their being able to say what they intend to say eventually, it’s only a matter of time. Likewise, between where you are and where you hope to be—or between who you are and who you hope to become—it’s only a matter of time! That’s the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 3, verses 1 and 11.
2. Refrain from giving unsolicited assistance. Whether you are helping someone with whom you are speaking complete their sentence or you are offering your spouse an unsolicited solution to a matter to which they primarily desire your empathy, offering unsolicited assistance can stifle intimacy rather than nourish it. Besides, if stammering nurtures perseverance in us (as the proverb surely implies), offering unsolicited assistance in helping the stammerer complete their statements will kill their opportunity to develop their perseverance further.
3. There is a blessing in our disabilities and incompetence. God, in His sovereignty, has blessed us with limitations that become tools that shape us into ever-increasing Christlikeness. The more we acknowledge our limitations, the more we will live a life that is fully dependent on Jesus—and the more we will bear the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
4. Stammering reminds us that failure—even repeated failure—is okay. The stammerer fails again and again before eventually being able to say a word, phrase, or statement correctly, but they don’t give up. Besides, for the stammerer, the fact that they were able to get the word out eventually in one moment does not mean that they will be able to do it again in the next moment. Such should be our disposition in life. No matter how many wins we record, we should not become so familiar with success that failure becomes abhorrent. Failure has always been one of God’s best tools to cultivate in us humility and utter dependence on Him. Perseverance validates failures.
5. Lastly, be patient. Be patient with other (fellow) stammerers, and be patient with yourself. If we are being honest, we will admit that, at the end of the day, we are all stammerers—and that’s okay! We all have one area of life or the other where we stutter. Rather than wanting to cover these up, let us acknowledge them for what they are: portals for God’s power to find expression in our weakness!
Be encouraged by the words of Habakkuk 2:3 NKJV — “For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry.”
LISTEN TO THE EPISODE:
✥ Our Website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/omoluabi
✥ Other Platforms — https://pod.link/1550735589
FOR MORE RESOURCES FROM JOSEPH & ANU OLA:
Explore additional resources and content from Joseph and Anu Ola on various platforms:
✥ Linktree — https://linktr.ee/josephola
✥ Disha Page — https://josephola.disha.page/
JOIN THE OMOLUABI COMMUNITY: Stay connected with us as we journey together towards becoming true Omoluabis — people of character and wisdom. You can like our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/omoluabipodcast/ or join Alive Mentorship Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/alivementorship. If you have African proverbs you'd like us to discuss in future episodes, you can submit them through our website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/contact or reach out on social media.
Till next time, remain an Omoluabi.
Omoluabi Podcast | Season 5 Episode 5
PROVERB CONSIDERED: "Ìwà lẹwà" (Translation: "Character is beauty.")
MEANING & ETYMOLOGY
n this enlightening episode, we explore the profound Yorùbá proverb above, which emphasises the deep connection between a person's inner qualities and their external beauty. At the core of being an "Omoluabi" (which breaks down into "Ọmọ tí Olú ìwà bí" -- a child born by the lord of character, i.e., a child of supreme character qualities and virtues) is the understanding that good character is the foundation of true beauty. Character is not merely a facade but a reflection of one's true essence.
CONNECTING PROVERB: We draw a connection to another Yorùbá proverb, "Èéfín nìwà" (Character is like smoke; it is difficult to hide), highlighting that character inevitably shines through and cannot be concealed. Both proverbs emphasise the importance of cultivating and nurturing one's character.
BIBLICAL APPLICATION:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
LISTEN TO THE EPISODE: Join us as we unpack the wisdom contained in this week's proverb and delve into the moral and spiritual applications it holds.
✥ Our Website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/omoluabi/ ✥ Other Platforms — https://pod.link/1550735589
FOR MORE RESOURCES FROM JOSEPH & ANU OLA: Explore additional resources and content from Joseph and Anu Ola on various platforms.
✥ Linktree — https://linktr.ee/josephola ✥ Disha Page — https://josephola.disha.page/
JOIN THE OMOLUABI COMMUNITY: Stay connected with us as we journey together towards becoming true Omoluabis — people of character and wisdom. You can like our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/omoluabipodcast/
Picture Credit: Oye Diran
Omoluabi Podcast | Season 5 Episode 4
PROVERB CONSIDERED: "Èké mọ ilé-e rẹ̀ ó wó; Ọ̀dàlẹ̀ mọ tirẹ̀ ó bì dànù" (Translation: "The devious person builds a house, and it collapses; the treacherous person builds one, and it tumbles in ruins.")
In this captivating episode, we delve into the profound Yorùbá proverb that carries a powerful message about the consequences of deceit and treachery. The proverb paints a vivid picture of the fate that awaits those who engage in underhanded actions, highlighting that their efforts will ultimately lead to ruin.
MEANING & BIBLICAL CONNECTION: We explore the depths of this proverb's meaning, drawing parallels to the story of Job and the wisdom found in Job 5:3ff. Particularly, we anchor our discussion on Job 5:12-13 (AMPC) which reads, "He frustrates the devices of the crafty, so that their hands cannot perform their enterprise. He catches the [so-called] wise in their own trickiness, and the counsel of the schemers is brought to a quick end."
MORAL & SPIRITUAL APPLICATION:
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
LISTEN TO THE EPISODE: Join us as we unpack the wisdom contained in this Yorùbá proverb and delve into the moral and spiritual applications it holds.
✥ Our Website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/omoluabi/ ✥ Other Platforms — https://pod.link/1550735589
FOR MORE RESOURCES FROM JOSEPH & ANU OLA: Explore additional resources and content from Joseph and Anu Ola on various platforms.
✥ Linktree — https://linktr.ee/josephola ✥ Disha Page — https://josephola.disha.page/
JOIN THE OMOLUABI COMMUNITY: Stay connected with us as we journey together towards becoming true Omoluabis — people of character and wisdom. You can like our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/omoluabipodcast/
Omoluabi Podcast | Season 5 Episode 3
PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Ilé ahun ò gba ahun; ọ̀dẹ̀dẹ̀ ahun ò gbàlejò; ahún kọ́lé ẹ̀ tán ó yọ ọ̀dẹ̀dẹ̀ níbàdí” (Translation: "The tortoise's house is not large enough for it; the tortoise's porch is not large enough to receive visitors; the tortoise built its house and adds a porch at the rear.")
MEANING: In this episode, through the above Yorùbá proverb, we highlight the issue of stinginess and its consequences. The proverb cleverly plays on the word, "ahun" which could either mean "stingy" or (as a contracted form of "alábahun", means) "tortoise." Of course, the tortoise is often depicted as both a stingy and cautious creature in many Yorùbá folk tales.
The proverb is using the morphology of the tortoise as an object lesson. If the tortoise's shell is its house, it would seem that the tortoise but itself a house that is hardly spacious enough to contain himself alone let alone have some spare room (not even a well sized porch) to entertain visitors in.
BIBLICAL APPLICATION: In a world often driven by self-preservation and scarcity mentality, the call to generosity can be challenging. However, the wisdom of both Yoruba culture and the Bible reminds us that true fulfilment lies in giving to others selflessly. When we open our hearts to generosity, we participate in a beautiful cycle of blessings.
Just as the tortoise's limited space denies it the joy of hosting guests, stinginess restricts us from experiencing the joy of enriching others' lives. God designed us to be conduits of His love, and when we share what we have with others, we sow seeds of hope, love, and transformation.
In contrast to the tortoise's morphology, the example of a kangaroo comes to mind. Think of the kangaroo's pouch, with enough room to embrace multiple young ones. When we give without reservation, we create space in our hearts to nurture and support others. Our acts of kindness, no matter how small, can have a profound impact on those around us. We draw parallels from biblical teachings, such as Proverbs 11:24-25 and Proverbs 28:25, that emphasize the principle of scattering and increasing wealth through generosity.
BIBLICAL REFERENCES: ✥ Proverbs 11:24-25 (NIV) - "One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." ✥ Proverbs 28:25 (NIV) - "The greedy stir up conflict, but those who trust in the LORD will prosper."
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
ACTION STEPS: This week, let us strive to be more generous and open-hearted. Reach out to someone in need, give even when it pinches, and trust that God will bless your acts of kindness. Remember, true generosity leads to an enriched life.
LISTEN TO THE EPISODE: Listen to the thought-provoking discussion on stinginess and generosity on our website or other podcast platforms.
✥ Our Website — https://www.josephkolawole.org/omoluabi/ ✥ Other Platforms — https://pod.link/1550735589
FOR MORE RESOURCES FROM JOSEPH & ANU OLA: Follow us on social media and explore more insightful content and resources.
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JOIN THE OMOLUABI COMMUNITY: Stay connected with us as we journey together towards becoming true Omoluabis — people of character and wisdom. You can like our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/omoluabipodcast/
Omoluabi Podcast | Season 5 Episode 2
PROVERB CONSIDERED:“Ajé ní ḿba ojú ọ̀rẹ́ jẹ́.”
ENGLISH TRANSLATION:"It is money that brings a frown to the brow of friendship."
MEANING & BIBLICAL APPLICATION: The point of this proverb, to put it simply, is thatnothing ruins a friendship more surely than the intrusion of money. In other words, money is very sensitive and requires wisdom to manage it properly.
It is often said that the top 3 things that destroy marriages are communication problems, sex-related problems, and money-related problems. We agree. So what attitudes towards money management tend to ruin friendships, partnerships, marriages, and other relationships? We highlighted a few of them in this episode, including:
We concluded by recommending a sound stewardship mindset towards managing money.
Scriptures Cited include:
✥“Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” Proverbs 10:4 (NIV)
✥“Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.” Proverbs 13:11 (NIV)
✥“Such are the paths of all who go after ill-gotten gain; it takes away the life of those who get it.” Proverbs 1:19 (NIV)
✥“The rich rule over the poor, And the borrower is slave to the lender.” Proverbs 22:7 (NIV)
LINKS TO LISTEN TO THE EPISODE
✥ Our Website —https://www.josephkolawole.org/omoluabi/
✥ Other Platforms —https://pod.link/1550735589
FOR MORE RESOURCES FROM JOSEPH & ANU OLA
PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Ọmọ tí àgbẹ̀-ẹ́bí, oko ni yó ro; ọmọ tí Gàm̀bàrí bí, okùn ni yó ran.”
ENGLISH TRANSLATION: "The child born by a farmer will engage in farming; the child born by a Hausa man will engage in rope weaving."
MEANING & BIBLICAL APPLICATION: This is one of those proverbs that sound like a hasty (or even myopic) generalisation. Factually, not every farmer's child goes on to become a farmer and not every Hausa man's child will weave ropes. However, to treat the proverb like that is to miss the point. The point of the proverbs is rather clear: There is such a thing as "family likeness." A goat will sire a goat in the same way a lion will sire a lion. We will take after our parents (or foster parent, or guardian, or pastor, or mentor . . . etc), at least in certain respect and to some certain degree. As Barry Hallen noted, "Proverbs do not introduce themselves to us as universal truths, as generalizations that always apply. Their pith, their point, their punch is situational or context-dependent to an essential degree."
If we think of this proverb biblically, therefore, an essential scriptural truth comes alive: We are supposed to take after our Heavenly Father! In fact, this is the reality unto which every child of God is predestined!
“For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers” (Romans 8:29 ESV). “God, in his foreknowledge, chose [us] to bear the family likeness of his Son, that he might be the eldest of a family of many brothers” (Romans 8:29 PHILLIPS). “God knew what he was doing from the very beginning. He decided from the outset to shape the lives of those who love him along the same lines as the life of his Son. The Son stands first in the line of humanity he restored. We see the original and intended shape of our lives there in him” (Romans 8:29 MSG). “. . . And so we are transfigured much like the Messiah, our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful as God enters our lives and we become like him” (2 Corinthians 3:18 MSG). “. . . as the Spirit of the Lord works within us, we become more and more like him” (2 Corinthians 3:18 TLB).
In a nutshell, “all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit.” (2 Corinthians 3:18 AMPC)
This leaves each of us with a rather personal question: “How is your transformation and transfiguration going?” Each of us will have to take responsibility for our part in this process. As the AMPC hinted in 2 Corinthians 3:18, the tool by which this transformation happens is the Word of God. What’s your relationship with the Word of God like as you dig into 2023 in full?
May we be faithful to our individual sanctification process as God supplies the grace, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Scriptures Cited include:
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PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Ohun tí a rí la fi ḿbọ párá ẹni; Bí igi tíná ḿbẹ lẹ́nu ẹ̀ kọ́.”
ENGLISH TRANSLATION: "One uses whatever one can find to fill gaps in one’s roof; That does not apply to a still-burning stick."
MEANING & BIBLICAL APPLICATION: The imagery that birthed this proverb is that of a mud hut with a thatched roof in a typical African village. While such a roof may occasionally have leakages, such gaps or leakages could be blocked by virtually anything—anything apart from a stick still spewing flames! The reason is obvious; rather than block a leakage or close a gap in the roof, such a burning stick will end up burning down the entire building!
The implication of the proverb is therefore quite obvious, viz: every seemingly sensible generalization has exceptions. To state it biblically, the fact that something is generally good does not mean it is good for you.
In the same vein, proverbs, as wise as they may be, are often based on generalisations which will need to be applied contextually, making the exemptions when necessary lest what was supposed to be wisdom becomes foolishness.
Scriptures Cited include:
✥ 1 Corinthians 6:12 MSG - "Just because something is technically legal doesn’t mean that it’s spiritually appropriate."
✥ 1 Corinthians 10:23 NKJV - "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify."
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PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Àṣá ò gbádìẹ níkọ̀kọ̀; gba-n-gba làṣá ńgbádìẹ”
INTERPRETATION: "What one dare do, one does openly"
MEANING & BIBLICAL APPLICATION: The imagery that birthed this proverb is hunting; the kite (predator) hunts the chick (prey) in broad day light, says the proverb. In that sense, we can easily see the biblical imagery of the devil going about like a roaring lion seeking whom to devour from the proverb (1 Peter 5:8). The point here is to be watchful; to spot the signs of the devil's tactics and nip them in the bud. This will come by maintaining a vibrant personal relationship with God as well as a flourishing communal fellowship experience. Isolated Christians are easy preys!
The other side to this proverb is the direct point of louding what we are doing, especially when we are persuaded that they are good deeds. In doing this, however, we must be careful to ensure that we are not making this publicity about us but about the God that is at work in and through us.
Scriptures Cited include:
✥ 1 Peter 5:8 CSB - "Be sober-minded, be alert. Your adversary the devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for anyone he can devour."
✥ John 7:4 CEV - "No one does anything in secret, if they want others to know about them. So let the world know what you are doing!"
✥ Matthew 5:16 NKJV - "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
✥ Matthew 6:3-4 NKJV - "But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly."
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PROVERB CONSIDERED: “À-fi-ọ̀rọ̀-wé-ọ̀rọ̀ ò jẹ́ kí ọ̀rọ̀ tán bọ̀rọ̀.”
INTERPRETATION: "Allowing-a-current-matter-to-remind-one-of-similar-matters-in-the-past prevents a quarrel from ending easily."
MEANING & BIBLICAL APPLICATION: Have you ever met someone who ALWAYS recalls your past mistakes in light of your present ones? How does that make you feel? That's exactly what this proverb is asking us to guard against. Let's be like our heavenly father who takes away our sins as far as the east is from the west, in spite of His ultimate knowledge of how many more times we will repeat the same mistakes. That's how the psalmist imagined the Fatherhood of God in Psalm 103. Read verses 12 to 14 for yourself below.
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✥ Psalm 103:12-14 VOICE
12 You see, God takes all our crimes—our seemingly inexhaustible sins—and removes them.
As far as east is from the west, He removes them from us.
13 An earthly father expresses love for his children;
it is no different with our heavenly Father;
The Eternal shows His love for those who revere Him.
14 For He knows what we are made of;
He knows our frame is frail, and He remembers we came from dust.
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PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Omi ló dànù, agbè ò fọ́”
INTERPRETATION: "It is the water that is spilled; the water container is not broken."
MEANING & BIBLICAL APPLICATION: This proverb is usually used in consoling someone who has experienced a loss. It's a way of shifting their perspective from the loss in itself to the fact that there is still 'something left' -- something capable of giving rise to many more of what was lost.
For the Christian, that 'something' is, above all else, Christ in us! Hence Paul writes to the Colossians, "Christ in you, the hope of glory." (Colossians 1:27b)
We reflected on the Proverb in a couple of dimensions.
1. WHEN HOPE IS DEFERRED. Solomon said, "Hope deferred makes the heart sick; but when dreams come true at last, there is life and joy." (Proverbs 13:12 TLB). We considered the possibility that God may actually use a cycle of seeming disappointments to lead us into exploring other alternatives of what we've always wanted, only to discover all along that sometimes, our 'Plan B' has been God's 'Plan A' all along!
2. HOPING AGAINST HOPE. We highlighted the case studies of Joseph and Sarah, both of who hoped in difficult circumstances (and Abraham, of course). In the case of Abraham and Sarah, we were told that they hoped against hope in the sense that inspite of Abraham's dead body and Sarah's dead womb, they judged God faithful and He came through for them. We therefore wrapped up the episode with the hope-inspiring scripture in Job 14:7-9 NKJV -- “For there is hope for a tree, If it is cut down, that it will sprout again, And that its tender shoots will not cease. Though its root may grow old in the earth, And its stump may die in the ground, Yet at the scent of water it will bud And bring forth branches like a plant."
Scriptures Cited include:
✥ Job 14:7-9 NKJV which says "For there is hope for a tree, If it is cut down, that it will sprout again, And that its tender shoots will not cease. Though its root may grow old in the earth, And its stump may die in the ground, Yet at the scent of water it will bud And bring forth branches like a plant."
✥ Acts 16:6-10 TLB which says "Next they traveled through Phrygia and Galatia because the Holy Spirit had told them not to go into the Turkish province of Asia Minor at that time. Then going along the borders of Mysia they headed north for the province of Bithynia, but again the Spirit of Jesus said no. So instead they went on through Mysia province to the city of Troas. That night Paul had a vision. In his dream he saw a man over in Macedonia, Greece, pleading with him, “Come over here and help us.” Well, that settled it..."
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PROVERB CONSIDERED: “Erín ńtú eruku; ẹfọ̀n ńtú eruku; títú eruku àjànàkú bo tẹfọ̀n mọ́lẹ̀.”
INTERPRETATION: "The elephant raises a cloud of dust; the buffalo raises a cloud of dust; the elephant’s ability to raise dust far surpasses the buffalo’s."
MEANING & BIBLICAL APPLICATION: This proverb speaks of the fact that some things (or people) are simply incomparable, no matter the similarities they share with others. They are simply beyond all competition!
This is the context in which this proverb will be normally used. As we reflected on the proverb from a biblical point of view, a few thoughts emerged:
1. UNIQUENESS. The fact is that a buffalo will always be a buffalo and an elephant will always be an elephant. By virtue of their differing sizes, they can not raise dust to the same extent. There is no point in comparing their dust-raising capabilities. Likewise, as Apostle Paul admonishes (and as we have repeatedly shared on this podcast), "they that compare themselves with themselves are not wise." For those who follow this podcast regularly, you may notice that the subject of COMPARISON has been recurrent (especially in Season 3). This wasn't planned; it just happened! (Perhaps, God wants to keep saying the same message to us until we get it.)
2. INCOMPARABILITY. In other words, the fact that the buffalo can (seemingly) do the same thing an elephant can do (i.e. raise dust) doesn't mean that they are mates. In like manner, the fact that the devil can sometimes do certain things that are (seemingly) powerful does not mean it can be compared to God ALMIGHTY. We know that whatever powers the devil may or may not have are still within the control of the ALMIGHTY, ALL-POWERFUL God!
And in human-to-human relationships, to give a biblical example, the fact that some self-acclaimed "super-Apostles" in Corinth can show certificates validating their 'apostolic authority' (in a manner of speaking) while Apostle Paul had no such certificates or 'letters of recommendations' does not mean that their ministerial worth can be compared to Apostle Paul's! (And Paul showed them their level in Chapters 10-13 of 2 Corinthians.
Scripture Cited include:
✥ 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 NIV says "and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody."
✥ Matthew 28:18 KJV says "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost"
✥ 2 Corinthians 10:12 ERV says "We don’t dare put ourselves in the same class with those who think they are so important. We don’t compare ourselves to them. They use themselves to measure themselves, and they judge themselves by what they themselves are. This shows that they know nothing."
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